Ultimate Brioche Filled with Vanilla Cream and Chocolate Chips

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Ultimate Brioche Filled with Vanilla Cream and Chocolate Chips

Summary

Indulge in the rich, buttery delight of this Ultimate Brioche Filled with Vanilla Cream and Chocolate Chips. With its pillow-soft texture, luscious vanilla pastry cream, and pockets of melty chocolate, this brioche is the ultimate comfort bake. Whether served at brunch, as a decadent dessert, or a sweet afternoon snack, it promises to impress with every bite.

Prep Time, Cook Time, and Servings

  • Prep Time: 2 hours (including proofing)
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
  • Servings: 8–10
  • Calories per serving: ~350 kcal

Course & Cuisine

  • Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
  • Cuisine: French

Ingredients

Brioche Dough

  • 3 ½ cups (450g) all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
  • ½ cup (120ml) warm milk
  • 3 large eggs
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Vanilla Cream Filling

  • 2 cups (480ml) whole milk
  • ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • ¼ cup (30g) cornstarch
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter

Additional Ingredients

  • ½ cup (90g) chocolate chips
  • 1 egg (for egg wash)
  • Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)

Equipment Needed

  • Mixing bowls
  • Stand mixer with dough hook (or hands for kneading)
  • Rolling pin
  • Saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Pastry brush

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Brioche Dough

  1. In a small bowl, mix the warm milk with the yeast and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
  2. In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the flour, remaining sugar, and salt.
  3. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and yeast mixture. Mix on low speed until a sticky dough forms.
  4. Gradually add the butter, a piece at a time, mixing until fully incorporated.
  5. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
  6. Transfer to a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Vanilla Cream

  1. In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it just begins to simmer.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.
  3. Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to temper.
  4. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until thickened.
  5. Remove from heat, stir in the vanilla extract and butter until smooth.
  6. Cover with plastic wrap directly on the surface and chill until needed.

Step 3: Assemble the Brioche

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a large rectangle about ½ inch thick.
  3. Evenly spread the chilled vanilla cream over the dough.
  4. Sprinkle chocolate chips on top of the cream.
  5. Carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Slice into even pieces.
  6. Arrange the slices on the baking sheet, leaving space between them. Cover loosely and let rest for 20 minutes.

Step 4: Bake

  1. Brush the tops with egg wash.
  2. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown.
  3. Let cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar, if desired.

Recipe Variations

  • Nutty Delight: Sprinkle chopped hazelnuts or almonds over the cream before rolling.
  • Fruit Twist: Add dried cherries, raisins, or a touch of orange zest to the dough for a fruity touch.
  • Dark Chocolate Lovers: Swap in dark chocolate chips for deeper flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! The dough can be refrigerated overnight, and the vanilla cream can be made up to a day in advance.

2. Can I freeze the brioche?
Yes. Store baked and cooled brioche in an airtight container or bag. Freeze for up to 2 months and reheat before serving.

3. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, use 2 teaspoons of instant yeast and skip the proofing step. Add it directly to the flour.

Notes

  • Use warm (not hot) milk to activate the yeast without killing it.
  • Avoid overfilling with cream to prevent leakage while baking.
  • Let the brioche cool slightly to set the filling before serving.

Nutritional Info (Per Serving)

  • Calories: ~350 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Protein: 7g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Sugar: 15g
  • Fiber: 2g

Conclusion

This Ultimate Brioche Filled with Vanilla Cream and Chocolate Chips is the perfect fusion of rich pastry and creamy indulgence. With its buttery layers and irresistible filling, it’s sure to become a staple in your baking rotation. Give it a try—and prepare to impress everyone at the table.

 

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